It’s been said, “Eternal vigilance is the price of freedom” and that statement is certainly true in the Christian life. The picture in this blog post is my dog ensuring the squirrels stay away from the bird feeder so the birds are free to eat. He takes on this duty as if it is his life’s mission. What if we demonstrated that same degree of diligence in our Christian lives?
As the Apostle Paul is commending the church in Rome, he suddenly presents a stark warning,
Now I urge you, brethren, keep your eye on those who cause dissensions and hindrances contrary to the teaching which you learned, and turn away from them. (Romans 16:17)
Paul is warning the church to be watchful and consider those whose teaching is contrary to the teaching they had received. We must be mindful that there is no shortage of false teachers and w ensure that we are living in accordance with biblical principles. He describes the nature of those individuals in the next verse,
For such men are slaves, not of our Lord Christ but of their own appetites; and by their smooth and flattering speech they deceive the hearts of the unsuspecting. (Romans 16:18)
We must be aware that evil exists in this world and our strategy to combat that evil is revealed in the next verse,
For the report of your obedience has reached to all; therefore I am rejoicing over you, but I want you to be wise in what is good and innocent in what is evil. (Romans 16:19)
The word “innocent” literally means to be unmixed and pure as in wines or metals. This is the picture of one who is unadulterated by the world. As we encounter evil in the world it’s a comfort to know we’re on the winning side. Paul calls to mind the promise alluded to in Genesis 3:15,
The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet. (Romans 16:20)
What are some areas in your life that require you to be vigilant? As you encounter challenges, what comfort do you gain from Romans 16:20?
Associate Pastor – Discipleship. The Church at LifePark
Professor of Discipleship, Columbia International University
Follow me on twitter: rickhiggins5
June 1, 2016 at 5:41 pm
Thank you for your comment Myrna, you are correct that we must be on the alert for the evil one, “Be of sober spirit, be on the alert. Your adversary, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.” (1 Peter 5:8)
June 1, 2016 at 2:55 pm
Yes. Always on guard against the evil one attempting to enter our/ my life. Thanks for sharing this post. See u later. Blessings!!
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